Please read it like you are talking about it to someone in a natural speed. Thank you, in advance!!!
I think that the term "so-so" is one of the most convenient English words for Japanese people to use. Maybe it is the best word to make them sound mild or neutral, because it's translated as "maa-maa" in Japanese.
When I use the word "maa-maa", I mean that it's just okay, but not very good.
Our conversations in English often go like this:
-"How are you today?"
-"So-so."
-"How did the test go?"
-"So-so."
-"How was the weather there?"
-"Well, so-so."
-"Do you like apples?"
-"So-so."
Today, I happened to read a journal entry written by an American lady.
While she has been working as an English teacher, it seems that she has heard the term "so-so" many times from Japanese people. When she asked someone if the person liked apples, the response was just "so-so". The English teacher says that it was not at all natural-sounding English. She also added that she'd never really heard anyone say, "so-so" before coming to Japan.
What a surprise! There is an English word that native English speakers would not use as often as Japanese people do!
But, it is English, right?
Then, how would you use it?
Is it a word that makes things vague, or makes you sound not too opinionated?
Whoa! This idea is very Japanese-ish! (@_@。
The American lady was correct, I almost never hear "so-so". Only when talking about a movie, Example: - Did you like the movie? + Eh, so-so. /// But even then, people still barely say it.
And when you say "maa-maa" do you mean "mother"? Because English speakers only spell it "mama" (not with the "-" though).
I hope these tips help you. And I hope you could hear my voice clearly. You may have to turn the volume up or down to find a good position because my microphone is cheap. =P